College of Education Expands Principal Certification Program

male student in classroom

Texas State University's College of Education is offering an accelerated online principal certification program through its Department of Counseling, Leadership, Adult Education and School Psychology. The 18-credit-hour post-master's program is designed to prepare equity-focused campus leaders through a largely online format.

The program, recognized by the University Council for Educational Administration (UCEA), emphasizes placing school leaders within societal contexts and leveraging community resources for school improvement. It includes online seminars, asynchronous learning, and field practicum activities.

To qualify, applicants must hold a master's degree in education from an accredited institution and possess at least one year of documented K-12 classroom teaching experience. The program is structured to be completed within three semesters, with summer enrollment options.

Key program components include:

  • Leadership Institutes: Online seminars focused on developing personal leadership vision, instructional supervision, and school law.
  • Action Research: Curriculum emphasizing collaborative research strategies to drive systemic change.
  • Field-Based Practicum: Practical experience with regular supervision.

Upon successful completion of the program, candidates become eligible to take the Texas Education Agency (TEA) principal certification exam.

"Emphasizing social justice, the principal preparation program provided me with opportunities to engage in scholarly learning and action research that directly impact my everyday work in schools." said Tamey Williams-Hill, Lake Travis ISD human resources director and program alumna.

The program is committed to developing leaders who understand how to build and maintain healthy school and community environments, with a focus on ethical leadership and equity.

For detailed application requirements, including transcript and teaching certification documentation, prospective students are encouraged to visit the program website.